Dubai Princess Sheikha Mahra Publicly Announces Divorce, Citing Husband Infidelity on Instagram
Dubai Princess Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has publicly announced her divorce from Sheikh Mana bin Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mana Al Maktoum, citing his infidelity. The revelation was made through an Instagram post, causing a stir among followers and the public. The couple, who had a grand wedding in 2023, recently welcomed their first child, a daughter, in May 2024. Despite this joyous addition, Sheikha Mahra’s post highlighted a tumultuous relationship.
Sheikha Mahra directly addressed her husband in the post, stating, “Dear Husband, As you are occupied with other companions, I hereby declare our divorce. I divorce you. I divorce you, and I divorce you. Take care. Your ex-wife.” This bold declaration has drawn significant public attention and support, with the post quickly garnering 33.7K likes and numerous comments expressing sympathy and praise for her bravery.
Followers had noticed the royal couple’s social media activity, with both unfollowing each other and removing photos of one another from their profiles. Speculations arose about the formalities of divorce in Islamic law and whether Sheikha Mahra’s account had been hacked. However, her firm stance in the post quelled such rumors.
Sheikha Mahra, known for her advocacy of women’s empowerment and support for local designers, is the daughter of the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. She holds degrees in International Relations from a UK university and from the Mohammed bin Rashid Government Administration. Her marriage to Sheikh Mana was celebrated with a traditional Islamic ceremony, Katb Al-Kitab, on May 28, 2023, followed by a lavish wedding reception in Dubai. The couple announced their engagement on March 22, 2023, through the Arabian Royal Agency, confirmed by an official post that included a congratulatory poem by Sheikh Mana’s father.
Hints of trouble in their marriage emerged when Sheikha Mahra posted a cryptic message with a photo of her cuddling her baby, captioned “Just the two of us.” This suggested underlying issues, which were later confirmed by her Instagram post. Her public address of marital issues has further painted her as a modern and courageous figure in the royal family, resonating with many who see her as a champion of honesty and empowerment.
This announcement has raised eyebrows due to the royal status of the couple and the public nature of the disclosure. It has sparked discussions about the dynamics of their relationship and the implications of such a high-profile divorce in the UAE. While some followers expressed disbelief and speculated about the veracity of the post, the majority showed support for Sheikha Mahra, praising her strength and resilience.
The situation also highlights the impact of social media on personal lives, especially for public figures. The instant and widespread nature of the platform has allowed Sheikha Mahra to share her truth with the world, receiving immediate feedback and support. This case underscores the evolving nature of privacy and public discourse in the digital age.
In the wake of this announcement, Sheikha Mahra’s reputation as a modern, independent, and empowered woman has been solidified. Her decision to publicly address her marital issues reflects a broader movement towards transparency and self-empowerment, especially for women in traditionally conservative societies. As the story continues to unfold, it will likely influence public perceptions and discussions about marriage, fidelity, and women’s rights in the region.